Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru has threatened to deal with anyone involved in any form of mismanagement or diversion of public resources as such action would be met with firm action.
Governor Nwifuru made the threat during the flag-off of Health Activation Programme in readiness for the Drug Revolving Fund (DFR) and Distribution of Medical Equipment to the 13 General Hospitals in the state held at Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre Abakaliki.
He stated that the state government had already shown that it would not condone negligence adding that the state government also has a vision of establishing a specialist hospital in each of the three senatorial zones to provide advanced healthcare services, reduce medical tourism, and save lives.
He noted that the medical equipment is worth over one billion naira and added that the distribution marks a significant milestone in the journey to reposition Ebonyi’s health sector.
“We are also exploring partnerships for healthcare financing and digital health systems that will ensure efficiency and access. Today is a new dawn for health in Ebonyi. Let this flag-off be a call to action to our health workers, our communities and every stakeholder.
“Working together will accelerate our vision to build a system that delivers hope, healing, and health to all. Let the health facilities belong to the people. Ownership brings responsibility. Let me make it clear that accountability is not an option.
“This event is not just a ceremony, it is a declaration of our administration’s commitment to revitalizing the healthcare system of our dear state. It is a testament to our resolve to deliver on the health pillar of our People’s Charter of Needs.”
He stated that for sometimes now, the health sector in Ebonyi has suffered from insufficient funding, inadequate personnel, and a lack of basic equipment adding that the narrative must change, and it must change now.
“Today, we are taking a bold step forward with the launch of the Drug Revolving Fund. This initiative will guarantee the continuous availability of essential drugs in all our general hospitals. The revolving nature of the fund ensures sustainability, transparency, and accountability.
“It is a lifeline for our rural communities, who will now have access to quality medicines at affordable rates. Already, we have achieved over 60% delivery of essential drugs, and the process continues until full coverage is attained,” he said.
The state governor urged healthcare workers and facility managers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in managing these resources.
“Our hospitals cannot function effectively without adequate tools. Therefore, we are distributing modern medical equipment, including hospital beds, mattresses, patient monitors, drip stands, and other critical consumables.
“In recognition of the human resource gaps, we have recruited 195 healthcare professionals—doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory scientists. They are already posted to all our general hospitals to ensure optimal service delivery.
“We are also working with relevant institutions to train and retrain our health workforce, ensuring that they meet global best practices.
Let me use this medium to call on our community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society to join us in monitoring and protecting these investments,” he added.
